NYC tower won’t leave its neighbors in the shade

New details and images have emerged regarding Studio Gang’s Solar Carve Tower. Unveiled in 2012, the unusual building is due to begin construction soon and features an interesting design that’s informed by a desire to not unduly obstruct the view nor cause the surrounding area to be left in shadow.

The more skyscrapers built in cities, the more potential for leaving people in the shade. It’s a serious issue that’s sparked protests from New York residents and causes permission to be regularly denied for towers that cast too much shadow.

The Solar Carve Tower has been designed to address such concerns. While it looks like a couple of chunks have been carelessly carved out of its sides, the building’s shape was calculated to ensure that the adjacent High Lineand neighboring buildings neither have the view completely obstructed nor are left in shadow all day as the sun rises and falls. Air flow has also been considered.